Soviet Missiles in Cuba

Worksheet Description

The worksheet looks into one of the most critical confrontations between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War era. It chronicles the discovery of Soviet missiles in Cuba by the U.S., dangerously close to American shores, and highlights the strategic decisions and actions taken by President John F. Kennedy in response. The narrative sheds light on the intense diplomatic negotiations behind closed doors, ultimately leading to the Soviet Union’s decision to withdraw the missiles. The worksheet concludes with a prompt that asks students to explore the root causes of the Cuban Missile Crisis.

The primary objective of this worksheet is to familiarize students with the events, significance, and diplomatic intricacies of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Through a comprehensive narrative, it provides an insight into the gravity of the situation and how close the world came to a nuclear confrontation. It emphasizes President Kennedy’s pivotal role in navigating this crisis, making difficult decisions to avoid potential worldwide war. By prompting students to consider the origins of the crisis, the worksheet encourages critical thinking and analytical skills, allowing them to reflect on the broader geopolitical factors that contributed to this high-stakes standoff.